Top 5 Natural Monuments around Saxel
Best natural monuments around Saxel are found in the Haute-Savoie department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in southeastern France. This area is characterized by its natural features, including mountains and diverse landscapes. The region offers a range of natural monuments and attractions, providing various experiences for nature enthusiasts.
Best natural monuments around Saxel
- The most popular natural monuments is La Gouille aux Morts, a lake that serves as a tranquil haven for wildlife. Beavers, mallards, herons, and frogs find shelter…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Pointe des Brasses
Highlight • Summit
Les Brasses …
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La Gouille aux Morts
Highlight • Lake
Gouille aux Morts: What an ugly name for this charming little pond. Beavers, mallards, herons, and especially frogs …
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Copacou Stone
Highlight • Natural Monument
The rock is very steep on the descent side, but flat on the other side …
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Cascade de Bellevaux
Highlight • Waterfall
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Intersection Point: La Gouille aux Morts (Pond of the Dead) Altitude 650m Gouille aux Morts: What an ugly name for this charming little pond. Beavers, mallards, herons, and especially frogs take shelter in its tall grass and breed there. The place is calm and peaceful, far from the road to the Vallée Verte (Green Valley), although you can still hear the sounds of traffic. Above it, the Molière à Vachat stream is mirrored in its waters. Its reflection blends with the water lilies scattered there, creating perfect harmony. A delight for the eye of the walker. It's impossible not to think of Monet's "Water Lilies." It is said that, long ago, two stonemasons working at the "Molière," located about fifty meters above, fell to their deaths there on a Sunday (yes, a Sunday...the Lord's Day). See: H. Savoie: Les Molières du Mont Vouan. Or perhaps the pond got its name because a peasant was swallowed up there with his cart...
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A beautiful via ferrata, difficulty level D, impossible without via ferrata equipment. Very well-developed but not suitable for beginners. Many crossings over water.
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It can blow hard up there! I recommend the path that goes down to La Tour from the east
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Nice place to take a break but not worth a hike on its own. Nice view of the Rocafort castle less than 10 minutes away on foot. This stone is also located about thirty minutes from the Penaz waterfall which is worth the detour.
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The cross means summit of the Brasse mountain
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Pointe des Brasses is a summit of Haute-Savoie located in the Chablais massif, straddling the municipalities of Saint-Jeoire and Viuz-en-Sallaz, and culminating at 1,503 meters above sea level. Les Brasses is a toponym from a mountain pasture located above Viuz-en-Sallaz2. It could derive from the German Brache, which designates fallow or fallow land2,3, or from the Old German braka meaning “clearing”3. It is possible that it also derives from the Latin bracchium3 (“arm”), referring to the arms of the river, three of which have their source in Brasses: the Menoge, the Entreverges and Airets streams. In June 2013, a cross made by students from the Viuz-en-Sallaz Catholic Automobile School was erected on its summit. Six meters high, it is made up of 33 metal cubes measuring 30 centimeters on each side, assembled on site and arranged in a spiral by the students themselves. She was blessed on July 7, 2013 by Mgr Boivineau, Bishop of Annecy.
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Nice spot for via ferrata and tree climbing
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular natural monuments to visit around Saxel?
Beyond the top highlights, visitors often enjoy the panoramic views from Mount Forchat, where you can identify points of interest with an orientation sign. The Col de Cou and Jambaz Pass are also popular, especially for cyclists, offering scenic routes and beautiful landscapes.
Are there any natural monuments with historical or archaeological significance near Saxel?
Yes, the Copacou Stone is a natural monument believed to be a sacrificial and chalice stone. It features a distinct triangular depression and offers a magnificent view of the valley, making it a unique spot for a break or picnic.
Which natural monuments are suitable for families with children?
The La Gouille aux Morts is a charming and tranquil pond that is ideal for families. It's a peaceful spot where children can observe various wildlife like beavers, mallards, herons, and frogs in their natural habitat.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the natural monuments in Saxel?
The region around Saxel offers a variety of outdoor activities. Near the Cascade de Bellevaux, you can find opportunities for via ferrata and tree climbing. For hiking, mountain biking, and running, you can explore numerous trails. For example, you can find routes like the "Rocafort Castle – Penaz Waterfall loop" for hiking, or the "Plateau de la Menoge loop" for MTB and running. You can find more details on these activities in the Hiking around Saxel, MTB Trails around Saxel, and Running Trails around Saxel guides.
Are there any waterfalls to visit in the Saxel area?
Yes, the Cascade de Bellevaux is a notable waterfall and natural monument. Another picturesque waterfall is the Cascade de la Diomaz, located approximately 9 km from Saxel.
Where can I find good viewpoints or panoramic vistas?
Mount Forchat is renowned for offering almost panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, the Copacou Stone provides a magnificent view of the valley, making it a great spot to take in the scenery.
What kind of wildlife can be observed at these natural sites?
At La Gouille aux Morts, a charming pond, you can often spot beavers, mallards, herons, and frogs. The tall grasses around the pond provide shelter and breeding grounds for these animals, offering a peaceful wildlife viewing experience.
What are the difficulty levels for exploring natural monuments around Saxel?
The difficulty varies depending on the specific site and activity. For instance, the Cascade de Bellevaux offers a challenging via ferrata route, rated difficulty level D, which requires specific equipment and is not suitable for beginners. Other sites like La Gouille aux Morts are more accessible and offer tranquil, easy walks.
Are there any lesser-known or 'hidden gems' among the natural monuments?
While popular, La Gouille aux Morts could be considered a hidden gem due to its peaceful, somewhat secluded nature despite its proximity to the Vallée Verte road. It offers a calm escape and a rich habitat for wildlife, making it a delightful discovery for those seeking tranquility.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments around Saxel?
The region around Saxel is beautiful throughout the year, but spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the lush greenery, waterfalls, and outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. Autumn also offers stunning foliage. Winter can be picturesque, especially for snowshoeing or enjoying the serene, snow-covered landscapes, though some routes might be less accessible.
Can I find places for a picnic at these natural monuments?
Yes, the Copacou Stone is specifically noted as a nice place for a picnic, offering a magnificent view of the valley to enjoy with your meal.
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